ABSTRACT
This chapter explains Malaysia views developments in China and India positively, and its interests lie in co-opting Beijing and New Delhi's interest into the larger regional framework, with emphasis on multilateral cooperation. The challenge for Malaysia is to create the space and opportunities in the Southeast Asian region for both powers to pursue their interests peacefully and to avoid marginalising either of the powers. Surrounded by three major powers China, India and Japan- Malaysia is fortunate that none of these powers have demonstrated any hegemonic tendencies. Pessimists argue that China may just be biding its time and has yet to demonstrate its true colours. Crystal-gazing is often a hazardous activity. Rather than err on the side of caution and to predicate our responses to the fluctuations of power shifts in the region in an alarmist manner, it would be better to harness the window of opportunity to bring the major powers into a productive, positive and cooperative framework.
